In this day and age with a 24/7 hype machine running through the Internet and social media, it is a challenge for a No. 1 pick to actually exceed expectations. In Cleveland this season, Kyrie Irving found a way to do just that.

The progression of Kyrie to Game 1 to Game 50 exceeded everyone’s expectations,” Cavs coach Byron Scott stated. “When you pick someone No. 1, you figure he’s going to be pretty good and special. But he had a phenomenal rookie year.”

The NBA Rookie of the Year award will be announced soon, with Kyrie a virtual lock to win. The young phenom averaged 18.5 PPG, 5.4 APG and made plays like these…